The state government has hit pause on its plan to increase the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) contribution of farmers.
On Friday the government announced all Victorian primary producers would pay the same rate of ESVF as they paid in 2024/25.
This means the ESVF variable rate on primary production properties will remain at 28.7 cents for every $1000 of a property’s capital improved value – the same as it was in 2024-25 – for the duration of the 2025-26 financial year. This reduced rate will be applied to rates notices for primary production properties automatically.
This is the second cut to the levy this year for farmers. The government had originally set the levy at 83 cents for farms, before reducing it to 71.8 cents earlier in May.
The issue has caused political pain for the government with angry farmers and CFA volunteers protesting on the steps of Parliament house on budget day.
Treasurer and Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes said “By capping the rate of the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund for primary production properties, we’re ensuring farmers can remain fully focused on their drought response and recovery.”
The government also announced a new Drought Response Taskforce to be chaired by Premier Jacinta Allan.
The taskforce will provide advice on further help for farmers, as well as broader support for impacted businesses and communities.
